Becoming a Brother

The process of becoming a Brother of St. John of God begins with an initial contact by those who show interest in our way of life. This is the stage where an individual has the opportunity to meet the Brothers, have questions answered, and witness our way of life. In addition, it is an opportunity for the individual to continue his discernment in a more formal way.

After the initial contact stage, an individual who desires to continue his discernment and is suitable is invited to submit an application for the Pre-Postulancy program, which is a period where the candidate lives with the community of Brothers, sharing in the spiritual and apostolic activities of the community. At this stage, the candidate will have the opportunity to attend an intercommunity program, which will assist him in his discernment to become a Brother. This stage is a period of six to twelve months.

Candidacy is the initial stage of discernment involves the candidate living in the community and experiencing the ministries that the community is involved in while continuing to learn and experience the spirituality of hospitality. This period lasts from 9-12 months.

Postulancy, the next stage of formation is a period where the Candidate continues to discern his vocation to religious life. In this stage of formation, the Candidate begins an extended experience of what Religious Consecration entails in terms of prayer life, community life and mission, while continuing to live and have an active role in Community. This stage is approximately 6 months.

Novitiate is a period where the Postulant becomes a formal member of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God. During this stage of formation, the Candidate commits himself to reflect on the charism of the Order and his vocation to the Church by living the vows we profess. This period of Novitiate is 2 years, after which the Candidate will profess temporary vows of Poverty, Chastity, Obedience and Hospitality in the service of the sick and poor.

Scholasticate is a period during which the Brother continues to pursue his human, professional, theological, spiritual and pastoral formation. During this period, the Brother seeks to integrate vocation and mission and begins preparation for solemn Profession, through which he will consecrate himself forever to God and the Order through his vows in service to the sick, poor and those in need.
To speak with someone further about a vocation with the Hospitaller Brothers of St. John of God, please contact a Vocations Counselor or complete the online form below.

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Good to see Brother Gary back at Camillus House.#HospitallerGiving #OurDailyHabitsDay Center clients celebrated Camillus' 57th Anniversary with ice cream sundaes today!!! Brother Gary also shared some kind words. To make the treats even sweeter, staff served the desserts. ... See MoreSee Less

#HospitallerGiving #OurDailyhabitsIn 1989, Brother Harry Somerville started Camillus' first substance abuse treatment program. This program that he began more than 27 years ago is still operating today and maintains a 77% success rate. ... See MoreSee Less

Hamilton's Barrett Centre has been helping people with mental health problems for ten years, offering crisis counselling and a place to stay. It has filled a void when it comes to mental health care i...

#HospitallerGiving #OurDailyHabitsIn the 1970s, Brother Paul Johnson led Camillus House, endearing himself to the homeless. He served the community selflessly for close to two decades. ... See MoreSee Less

Camillus House a sponsored ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God Province of the Good Shepherd.#HospitallerGiving #OurDailyHabitsCamillus House celebrates 57 years of service on August 20, 2017. Beginning today, we will look back upon our humble beginnings and take a walk down memory lane. Check in daily to learn more about our agency’s compelling story. ... See MoreSee Less

One of my high school classmates has a son who has a drug affliction. He is having difficulty adhering to his treatment program. I told her to pray and ask Br. Mathias for his help. From the stories I've heard about Br Mathias, I know he loved the poor and had compassion for those who suffer from substance abuse.

Continue with the good works of mercy.

Happy brother Matthias day Uncle Maurice x x looking down on us all from heaven

HAPPY FEAST DAY, Bro Alphonsus!, who is in New Jersey, with the Brothers there! I tried calling you (Bro A) on the phone, but the message said that your mail-box was full! Miss you! "COME HOME SOON! Take your time and enjoy, actually!